Last week, the Georgia State Senate unanimously voted for a resolution denouncing the NFL for rejecting an ad characterized as being “anti-TakeAKnee.” Submitted by the group AMVETS, the print-based ad for the Super Bowl program reportedly featured the hashtag #PleaseStand. It is noted the Super Bowl program does include an ad from another Veterans group with the simple message We Stand for Veterans.

Can someone with the @GASenateDems explain why y’all unanimously supported this nonsense which paints players’ protest of police brutality as “disrespect and contempt for the flag”?? pic.twitter.com/H0EETz765F

Coming on the heels of Donald Trump taking a shot at #TakeAKnee during his State of the Union address, Georgia State Senators wasted no time jumping on the crazy train. In a brazen display, the Georgia State Senate condemned the NFL for not allowing the ad directing attendees to stand for the pledge. The resolution further claimed that failure to stand was an attack on the Flag itself.

One would think there weren’t more pressing matters before the Georgia State Senate. Although joining in the vote (the resolution passed unanimously), Georgia Senate Democrats claimed they had been rushed to vote and didn’t know for what they were voting.

AMVET is not entitled to place an ad with any wording in a program by a private entity. The NFL even tried to work with the group to have more appropriate wording. Also, the “Please Stand” ad will run on an app.

Given that this is an election year, Democrats need to have their eyes and ears wide open. There should be no confusion as to the tricks and games being played on the other side of the aisle. Lt. Governor Casey Cagle is running for Governor and has already expressed approval for the discriminatory “Official English” resolution by Senator Josh McKoon.

Whether Democrats knew what they were supporting or not, the fact remains they gave support for a racist dog whistle aimed at rallying up a particular voting bloc in the state ahead of upcoming elections. Concerns about “freedom” and “liberty” in the face of protest challenging the ongoing treatment of marginalized communities are laughable.

We have to stop hoping for the best from opponents across the aisle and seeing the playing field for what it is. Opponents of anthem protests are not looking out for Veterans of what is good for the country as a whole. These are people who are content with the status quo and have no issues with continued subjugation of Black and Brown communities.

Mckoon and Cagle and others are more worried about suppressing actions for justice than making decisions to the benefit of ALL Georgians. Medicare Expansion is still waiting for your attention guys.

In these times, “we didn’t know what we were voting for” cannot be an acceptable excuse. I can only imagine the volume of decisions being made, but at some point, someone should stop and look and think hey wait what am I voting for?

Recently, the Georgia Black Caucus commemorated the Original 33. Thirty-three Black members of the legislature were expelled from office 150 years ago. While we have made progress in Georgia, there are still those forces who actively suppress equality and justice in our state. We cannot give them cover or support, even unintentionally. Too many communities are relying on us to do better.

So instead of feeding into the fear mongering from the right, we choose to stand in support of those who protest. Tonight an Atlanta area collective is coming together to hold space for those protesting the Super Bowl and enjoy fellowship and fun! The Black Power Bowl will be held at The Phillip Rush Center Annex 6-11pm. RSVP now to join us!